THE television debates next week are sure to make interesting viewing, even for those without much interest in politics.

It is a very American idea but one which I think will help bring politics back to the people and after the scandals of the last year, that is vitally important.

The coverage in the national newspapers has been unprecedented with more analysis and comment pieces than ever before.

Add to that the fascinating online swing-o-meters and graphs and you have a political geek’s dream.

But what does it all actually do for the grassroots voter? Personally I think it is all a little confusing for those still undecided which is why the TV debates will be essential viewing.

For those in the know, analysis and comment is all very well, but for the everyday voters on the street, nothing can quite beat seeing politicians get a grilling on the issues that matter to them.

The political bias of the various national newspapers can add unwanted spin to an issue but all that is taken away when you stick the three leaders under the TV spotlight and fire questions at them.

The economy, tax rises, cuts in public spending and future plans for the NHS and education in Britain will all be touched upon and over the course of the three debates, viewers should be able to build up a valuable opinion of who they think is best to run the country after May 6.

The clash of personalities, usually only seen by those of us who religiously watch Prime Minister’s Question Time, will be an fascinating sub-plot but I hope that is all it is and these debates don’t turn it into an X-Factor style reality TV contest.